more temptation

pam buda's new sewalong--Liberty's Crown--is testing my determination.  Rather than english piecing or foundation piecing, i'd simply hand piece and, well, it isn't THAT big and the pieces are small, sure it should be a quick finish....but wait!!  the UFO list is calling haunting me so i'll reluctantly decline but save the pattern.  if you can't resist, hop on over to heartspun quilts and jump in!

summer has definitely left the building here in MD...me complain?  not a whit!  my maine wardrobe serves me well both here and during my soon visit up north.  i'll be gone only a week but hand sewing already packed....taking these two along....

'alaska' block kits and prep of applique circles for the dutch chintz panel UFO....nope i haven't forgotten it.  in fact, it could be a flimsy fairly soon...but the biggest news is....the binding on "midnight" has begun!  perhaps a finish this weekend.  next in the hoop is the folk art nativity as Christmas is fast approaching....my holiday plans are usually few, but already some events on my calendar.  now back to sewing!

Tricks or treats?

this cutie cat was sent to me by a quilty pal who does the most beautiful cross stitch as well as quilts!   this was definitely a treat!

streak of lightning is nearly a flimsy.....all the strips are done and a rummage in the stash unearthed this green that will be the border.  not my first choice but it'll work and besides, it's on hand and using it will make my frugal self happy.  there'll be some left but every little strip or FQ used up is progress.  another treat!

i did find this piece, a beautiful magenta-ish solid and there is definitely enough for the border but another plan is percolating.  a woman in one of my online quilty groups makes the most beautiful, mind-blowing, gorgeous whole cloth quilts....big ones, small ones, every one a masterpiece.  i queried her about method etc. as a whole cloth has been a WHIMM--work hidden in my mind--for a very long time.  this fabric will be perfect!  another treat! 

then to the bookcase where i pulled out this tried-and-true book published in 1980, only one year after my quilt journey began.  she published a second volume as well, both gems and chock full of patterns for my whole cloth.  i'm thinking 36" or 38" square with a center design, some cross hatching, some feathers....oh the ideas keep coming and coming!  another definite treat!

the biggest treat of all is that i am still here to have all this fun!  Six years ago tomorrow heart surgery gave me a second chance.  Yes, it was horrible and yes i've had plenty of detours, pity parties, embarrassing moments, and worked harder than i ever did in my life.  all those medical caregivers who treated me, gave me advice, listened to my issues and pushed me to keep working harder are the true saints....my All Saint's Day angels.  To say i'm blessed is a huge understatement.  I thank them and my God every day!